Opposition candidate in 2024 election; claimed president-elect
Appears in 1 story
In exile in Madrid; called for assuming presidency after Maduro's capture
Seven weeks after U.S. special forces captured Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro on January 3, 2026, Vice President Delcy Rodríguez has consolidated interim power through military loyalty pledges, oil privatization, and prisoner releases—while blocking democratic elections. On February 12, the National Assembly unanimously approved a general amnesty law covering political prisoners detained since 1999, which Rodríguez signed into law on February 20, potentially freeing over 600 detainees. However, the law excludes those convicted of inciting foreign military intervention, a provision that could bar opposition leader María Corina Machado from amnesty and prosecution. In an NBC News interview on February 12, Rodríguez pledged 'free and fair' elections but refused to set a timeline, conditioning them on Venezuela being 'free from sanctions' and international pressure. She also warned that Machado would 'have to answer to Venezuela' for calling for military intervention and sanctions—effectively signaling prosecution if Machado returns.
Updated Feb 20
No stories match your search
Try a different keyword
How would you like to describe your experience with the app today?
